OCEAN ANIMALS written by Blake Chapman and illustrated by Astred Hicks
When I first opened this book, it looked like a proper scientific resource with plenty of photographs and a handy glossary at the back – and it is. But it reads like a Talent Show!
It’s as though the best ocean acts are waiting in the wings, ready to star in this amazing book’s performance. I was half-way through before I came up for air!
Blake is a great host as she introduces the weirdest, smartest and sneakiest sea creatures. She’s friendly, cheeky and fun to read. Nearly every page has two or three exclamation marks, which just shows how fantastical and fast-paced the performances are.
Each chapter has a winning “Sea-lebrity”, such as the ‘poison breath skull cap’ on page 20 and ‘natural little water pistols’ on page 79 (including search words to access rewarding video links on the internet).
Astred’s illustrations make excellent backdrops for setting each scene as we learn about ocean environments, these creatures and their extraordinary abilities.
The Ocean’s got talent alright!
